She didn’t win a single title last year, but has begun 2014 on a good note.

After clinching the Syed Modi International India Grand Prix last month, top Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal is now preparing for the prestigious All England Badmintion Open Championships (in March 2014).

She takes time out for a quick chat about movies, old friend Deepika Padukone, acting offers and rivalry with PV Sindhu.

Deepika had a super successful 2013. Have you kept track?Yes, and congratulations to her. I have always believed that good work pays off. I watched her movie, Chennai Express (2013), and it was excellent.

Have you seen any other films of late? Yes, I watched Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) and it was worth it. I also watched Dhoom:3 (2013), which was a good movie with great acting and excellent songs.

There are rumours that a biopic is being planned on your life.Let us see, maybe if somebody takes it seriously (smiles).

You’ve apparently been offered acting roles in films too. Are you interested?No, let me show my talent in badminton (laughs).

You must be relieved after winning a tournament after a long time?Yes, it was really a long gap of a year without a medal. But in this competitive world, it is difficult to win a title every time. Also, I suffered several injuries and we played too many tournaments, so it took a toll on my performance last year. We have now decided to play limited tournaments, so I will get more time to train.

With a win under your belt, you must be confident about the All England Championships?I’ve got good training for the forthcoming tournaments, so obviously I’ll try to do my best.

Is it true that you have lost about three to four kilos?Yes, I have lost some weight, but it hasn’t been abrupt. We achieved it slowly in the presence of my physios and chief coach, Gopichand Sir.

Many feel PV Sindhu is your biggest competitor right now. What’s your equation with her?I think two is always better than one, so that we have good competition. And India will only benefit from it (the competition). But we are always friendly.